Reported by Sandeep Sharma
Guwahati: The A•chik State Peoples’ Front (ASPF) on Monday strongly criticised the statement made by the Deputy Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) on the issue of TNT (Trading by Non-Tribal) licences, calling the remarks “misleading” and “irresponsible”.
In a press statement, ASPF general secretary Bernita Marak said comments made without a proper understanding of the issue could create confusion and weaken public trust at a time when accountability was needed.
She said the provisions under the amended Green Book are meant to protect the interests of indigenous communities in Garo Hills and clearly state that TNT licences are meant only for non-tribal individuals who are bona fide residents within the jurisdiction of the GHADC.
Marak alleged that any attempt to dilute or misrepresent the provisions amounts to undermining the very purpose of the regulatory framework meant to safeguard local rights and livelihoods.
Questioning the Deputy CEM’s remarks, she said public representatives must speak responsibly, particularly on matters linked to the livelihood of local residents. She urged the concerned authority to thoroughly study the provisions before making public statements on the issue.
The organisation also raised concern over allegations that some individuals residing outside the jurisdiction of the GHADC had allegedly managed to obtain TNT licences and establish businesses in the region.
Referring to allegations involving a resident of Hatsingimari in Assam in connection with the setting up of a fuel outlet at Garobadha, Marak said the claims required proper verification and should not be ignored. She demanded that the authorities conduct a thorough inquiry into the matter.
ASPF further stated that if such cases were found to be true, they amount to a violation of Green Book provisions and adversely affect the economic rights and livelihood opportunities of local residents.
The organisation demanded a comprehensive and time-bound audit of all TNT licences issued under the GHADC, strict enforcement of residency criteria and cancellation of licences issued to individuals residing outside the jurisdiction.
ASPF also sought a transparent disclosure of findings and said the people of Garo Hills would not remain silent if irregularities in the licensing system continue unchecked.